Rowan Niemisto has been making quiet, soulful, impeccably produced waves of sterling sound over the past two years. We were fortunate enough to pick up on this unknown Detroit talent eight months ago via “warm, cosy lo-fi” track ‘Take My Time’ from his second EP, SINGLES. Now, Niemisto has surprised listeners once again with a third EP, titled Gradient, and it’s one that really brings home the musician’s SoundCloud description: “continuously inspired by new and old forms of soul, jazz, and electronic music. Blending his passion for songwriting with these diverse influences, Niemisto creates songs that are heartfelt, while simultaneously buoyant.” From the EP, we’re hand-picking ‘Behave (Before You Walk)’ a meltingly delicious old-school soul number, that is about as heartfelt as can be. With slow-stepping jazz percussion, sensuous guitar struts, amorous frets and Niemisto’s gorgeous voice, ‘Behave’ is a song for pouring your heart out to. -HT